**Protesters Block Rustaveli Avenue**
On the 71st day of protests, demonstrators managed to block Rustaveli Avenue despite police resistance. The protesters took control of the avenue and citizens from different sectors continue to gather daily in defiance.
The protesters are demanding a rerun of new elections and the release of those detained during the demonstrations. They have been gathering every day since the protests began.
**GD Prime Minister Accuses US Embassy**
The GD Prime Minister, Irakli Kobakhidze, has accused the US Embassy, USAID, NED, and EED, as well as local civil society organizations, of working together against the Georgian people and state. He made these claims in Kazakhstan.
**Repressive Legislative Amendments Adopted**
The GD parliament has adopted repressive legislative amendments that tighten rules on assemblies and demonstrations. The amendments increase administrative and criminal liability for certain offenses.
**New Members Appointed to National Bank Board**
The Georgian Dream parliament has voted to appoint four new members to the National Bank Board. The candidates were nominated by GD President Mikheil Kavelashvili and approved by a majority vote in the GD parliament.
**US Department of State Report on Drug Trafficking**
A report from the US Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs suggests that transnational drug organizations are using new routes across Georgia to transport opioids and synthetic drugs. The report also states that Georgia remains a critical hub in the global drug trade.
**TI-Georgia Criticizes GD Government**
TI-Georgia has released a detailed report criticizing the GD government’s initiated set of repressive legislative changes. The organization describes these amendments as “dictatorial regulations” aimed at suppressing ongoing pro-EU protests and instilling fear among the public.
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